Conference Playoffs: (13-4) Packers at Seahawks (13-4)

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The NFC finalists also met during the regular season and it was lopsided, too. Seattle romped 36-16 in the 2014 kickoff game.

Both sides went through some trials and tribulations the rest of the way, and not much emphasis should be placed on that opening result. Green Bay, in particular, is a different team, its defense more efficient with an improved pass rush, and its running game well-established after early struggles. Aaron Rodgers has gotten some diversity from his receiving group, especially with the emergence of Davante Adams and Andrew Quarless as a third and fourth target.

Most problematic, of course, is All-Pro Rodgers' sore calf. He clearly was restricted in the second half against Dallas last weekend — and the Cowboys don't come close to presenting the defensive challenge the defending Super Bowl champion Seahawks bring.

Indeed, Seattle's D is looking just as imposing now as it was a year ago.

"We're playing for each other, I think that's the biggest thing," All-Pro cornerback Richard Sherman says. "Guys are playing selfless: There aren't any egos, there aren't any agendas, and guys just want to do whatever it takes to win. If that means making a tackle, then make the tackle; if that means catching the football, we're going to catch the football. Guys are playing for one another, they don't care about stats, nor do they care about anything else."